Maxi, 27, has been the subject of interest from AC Milan over the past couple of months, with their vice-president Adriano Galliani recently stating that the Rossoneri are keen to sign him if a move for compatriot Carlos Tevez falls through.

And the former Barcelona forward has previously welcomed the San Siro link, saying: "If the Rossoneri want me then I'm ready. Milan are a great club, so it's normal that I would like to play for them."

However, Lo Monaco has now claimed that Milan are out of the running for Maxi, though Catania are weighing up a bid from Martin Jol's Cottagers.

"On Maxi Lopez there are no developments as yet, but an offer has been received from Fulham and we are evaluating it,'' Lo Monaco told Radio Mana Mana. "We are waiting to see what the Italian clubs will do.

"AC Milan are definitely out, while we will see what happens with Fiorentina. Lazio? I don't think they need Maxi.''

Fulham have scored just 22 goals in 20 Premier League games this season, with Bobby Zamora in and out of the side amid speculation about his relationship with Jol, while Andy Johnson has been linked with a move to Blackburn and big-money summer signing Bryan Ruiz has struggled to settle in West London since arriving from FC Twente.

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